(Image source from: PTI)
As unrest persists throughout Nepal, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday released a notice for Indian citizens residing in the nation. They have been told to stay where they are, refrain from going out, and be very careful. The MEA also encouraged individuals to adhere to local safety guidance provided by Nepalese officials and to keep updated through the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. The advisory mentioned, "Considering the evolving circumstances in Nepal, Indian nationals should delay any travel to the country until things calm down. Those currently in Nepal should stay in their homes, avoid going outside, and take all necessary precautions." Furthermore, the ministry recommended that Indian citizens put off any planned trips to Nepal until the situation is stabilized.
To help Indian citizens in Nepal, the MEA has provided emergency contact details. The advisory noted, “If you need any help, please reach out to the Embassy of India in Kathmandu using the following helpline numbers: 1. +977-980 860 2881 (WhatsApp calls are also allowed) 2. +977-981 032 6134 (WhatsApp calls are also allowed)." This notice came after several days of severe protests led by youth groups against the Nepali government, sparked by a now-lifted ban on certain social media sites, claims of corruption, and growing economic dissatisfaction. There have been at least 19 deaths and many injuries during confrontations with law enforcement, who employed tear gas and live ammunition to break up the crowds. Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli stepped down on Tuesday under increasing pressure. Bangladesh has enacted similar precautions. In a message on X, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus advised citizens currently in Nepal to stay put in their accommodations or hotels.
“All Bangladeshi citizens, specifically travelers heading to Nepal, are warned not to book flights to Nepal due to the current security conditions until further notice. In case of an emergency, Bangladeshis should contact +9779803872759 or +977 9851128381," Yunus communicated. He added that, alongside the 36-member national football team, a 51-member group from the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) in Mirpur, which is in Nepal for a study tour, is currently stuck in Kathmandu. All their planned activities have been cancelled, and the group is anticipated to return to Dhaka on September 12. “The delegation is evaluating their situation daily regarding their travel plans. The Bangladesh Embassy is maintaining constant contact with them through their local representative," he remarked.
